A single mom for 7 years and now living in a blended family, Meg blogs about her life experiences before and after re-marriage.
“In the most turbulent times, God’s power is revealed. Join me as we walk, and sometimes run through the ups and downs of this life journey!' - Meg Lovett

Strength to Discipline

There is a reason that Dr. Dobson entitled one of his books, "Parenting Isn't For Cowards". Life can get so busy and crazy that we really have to focus on what matters most in shaping our kid's futures. Everything can't and shouldn't be a battle, but once in awhile the lines have to be drawn and remaining consistent with expectations and authority becomes extremely important.

My son is a wonderful child and has a great gift of character. As he grows in age (8) we struggle every so often with his growing independence and his desire to cross the boundaries of respect and obedience. He is very strong-willed but usually is a quiet spirit that says, "yes ma'am" and obeys without much of an ordeal. Last night we had one of those nights where his attitude was asking, "What are you going to do if I defy your request?" I had a really long day and wasn't feeling very well and it would have been easy for me to simply ignore the bad behavior and hope for a better result next time but I knew full well that if not addressed, "next time" could be worse. Instead I had to push aside the fatigue and face this defiance head on. I stood my ground as calmly as I could and I explained amongst the
frustration and tried patience as to "why" it was important to comply with my
request and why his reaction and behavior will not be tolerated. He screamed and cried and threw a couple tantrums and I'm sure my poor neighbors were quite bothered by the noise, but when all was said and done, he laid in his bed and fell asleep having accomplished the task he was asked to do. Exhaustion has never felt so victorious.

As I collapsed into bed, the thought occurred to me; how often do I do that to God? How often does he ask me to comply with his request for obedience and I either outright defy Him, or I throw an internal screaming tantrum. He continues to love me and speak gently to me through my fits until I finally comply and then rest in the safe feeling of his love.

Parenting is teaching our kids how we are to obey God. God is loving but firm in his commands. Sometimes he's a gentle whisper and sometimes he speaks loud and clear. The only difference is that God does not collapse into bed from exhaustion afterwards. I am thankful for that!